The Caribbean region is a diverse and enchanting destination that not only boasts stunning natural beauty but also holds significant economic potential and investment opportunities. Year after year, more and more individuals are turning their attention to this vibrant area, whether it’s for significant real estate projects or the desire to start a business or retire in a place that offers a better quality of life. As the team at BrightPath Caribbean engages with clients and conducts consultations, one of the most frequently asked questions is: What about banking? 

The answer to this question is not straightforward and depends on several factors. Let’s delve deeper into the world of banking in the Caribbean, with a specific focus on personal and business banking in Sint Maarten. 

When it comes to personal banking in Sint Maarten, opening a personal bank account is only possible if you are a legal resident. The process is quite similar to that of any other banking institution. You will need to provide documents such as your identification or residency document, proof of income, and perhaps a letter of recommendation from another bank. Additionally, you may be required to make an initial deposit to the account. All of these requirements must be fulfilled in person at the bank branch of your preference. If you are interested in opening a bank account but need assistance becoming a legal resident first, we are here to help. Request your free consultation with us, and we will guide you through the process step by step. 

On the other hand, establishing a business bank account in Sint Maarten is a slightly more complex procedure. Fortunately, at BrightPath, our corporate services team is well-equipped to handle your banking needs from start to finish. Setting up a business bank account in Sint Maarten requires an operational business or private fund foundation with all the necessary documentation to prove proper incorporation and fiscal activity. Our team can provide expert guidance and support throughout this process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for your business. 

When it comes to selecting the right banking institution for your business, it is essential to consider various factors. You will need to assess the services and rates offered by different banks, taking into account the specific requirements of your business model. For example, if your business relies on receiving credit card payments, you may need a bank that provides suitable merchant account services. Alternatively, if your business operates predominantly online, you may require seamless access to online banking facilities. Keep in mind that each service may entail additional documentation and paperwork, so it is crucial to be prepared for these requirements. 

Navigating the process of setting up business bank accounts in Sint Maarten can be quite arduous without proper assistance. That’s where our corporate services team comes in. With our in-depth knowledge of the local banking landscape and our strong network of banking partners, we can guide you through the process, ensuring that you meet all the necessary requirements and can focus on running your business smoothly. 

Banking in the Caribbean, including Sint Maarten, presents a diverse range of opportunities for individuals and businesses alike. The Caribbean banking sector continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its customers. Whether you are a resident, investor, or entrepreneur, exploring the banking options in the Caribbean can provide you with a solid foundation for financial growth and prosperity. 

At BrightPath, we understand the importance of personalized guidance when it comes to banking in the Caribbean. Our dedicated team of experts is here to help you navigate the intricacies of the banking industry, ensuring that you make informed decisions that align with your financial goals. Book a free consultation with our team today, and let us help you explore the exciting world of Caribbean banking. With our support, you can seize the opportunities that this beautiful region has to offer and embark on a path of financial success. 

 

FAQ’s

1. What are the requirements for opening a personal bank account in Sint Maarten, and what assistance does BrightPath offer for individuals who need help becoming legal residents?
To open a personal bank account in Sint Maarten, one must be a legal resident and provide documents such as identification, proof of income, and potentially a letter of recommendation. BrightPath offers assistance in becoming a legal resident through a free consultation, guiding individuals through the process step by step.

2. What is the process for establishing a business bank account in Sint Maarten, and how can BrightPath’s corporate services team simplify this process for businesses?
Establishing a business bank account in Sint Maarten requires an operational business or private fund foundation with proper documentation for incorporation and fiscal activity. BrightPath’s corporate services team can provide expert guidance and support throughout this process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for businesses.

3. What factors should businesses consider when selecting a banking institution in Sint Maarten, and how can BrightPath assist in navigating these considerations?
Businesses in Sint Maarten should consider factors such as services offered, rates, and specific business requirements like merchant account services or online banking facilities. BrightPath can assist by providing insights into the local banking landscape, helping businesses choose the right banking partner, and guiding them through the process to meet all necessary requirements.

 

Do you have additional questions?

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you throughout the process!

 

For many years, BrightPath Caribbean remains recognized as the most trusted corporate and immigration services provider for St. Maarten and the English Caribbean.  For this reason, is that we have in-depth knowledge and proven efficiency and skillset to offer you integrated services such as real estate sale and purchase (in participation with our affiliate BrightFuture Realty), and in the interest of your assets and investments, services such as the creation of Private Fund Foundations, are executed by BrightPath within very short timeframes and with your wishes and estate planning needs in mind. 

Every day a good number of real estate transactions happen in Sint Maarten, and do you know what most big investments have in common? A Private Fund Foundation protecting the asset.  

A Private Fund Foundation (PFF), known in Dutch as “Stichting Particulier Fonds” (SPF), is a legal entity protecting assets, investments, or funds. With the assistance and experience of the team of professionals at BrightPath Caribbean, foreigners can create and fully participate in a PFF without the required participation of any external members or shareholders.  

Private Fund Foundations can make distributions to the incorporators and others without having a social or charitable purpose. Beneficiaries, if named, can have general or limited rights. When discussing the intents and purposes that you wish to accomplish in the formation of your PFF, rely on the expertise of BrightPath and schedule your free consultation here.  Our tax advisory team at Haven SXM can support our efforts and offer you the monthly and annual services required to maintain the compliance of your PFF with the local tax authorities. 

A Private Fund Foundation can own real estate. However, actively buying and selling real estate may be considered a business or enterprise. Collecting rent from tenants in owned real estate is not a business or an enterprise. If you are considering purchasing real estate in Sint Maarten, your representative at BrightPath can work in collaboration with one of our real estate agents at our affiliate BrightFuture Realty to synchronize the establishment of your PFF before submitting an offer to purchase.  This is important to consider especially when you want to ensure that your real estate purchase offer and the establishment of your PFF are contingent upon each other.   

Private Found Foundations are exempt from profit taxes (corporate and income taxes). This exemption rests upon one condition: the PFF does not operate a business or an enterprise for profit. However, the law states that investment activities and acting as a holding company do not qualify as a business or an enterprise.  

What are the benefits of a Private Fund Foundation in Sint Maarten?

Yes, it is important to point out that you can own real estate in your name (private ownership) and a PFF is not required, especially when considering there are up-front fees involved.  Therefore, establishing the benefits of a PFF is essential before deciding to create one with BrightPath.   

When owning property in your name, outside of a PFF, income from real estate may be taxed at 47,5% income tax rate (depending on your worldwide income).  For persons who intend to purchase real estate for vacation or investment purposes, this alone may be a key deciding factor.  Additionally, matters regarding inheritance tax may also surface without the protection of a PFF.  So, if you are considering retirement and/or estate planning it is essential to mention that a PFF is not subject to inheritance tax, alleviating your beneficiaries of any financial burdens in your inheritance planning. –  

When selling one or more real estate assets held by the PFF, transfer tax that is usually absorbed in full by the buyer (approximately five percent of the value of the sale-purchase transaction) will not be applicable, as the PFF can be transferred with all assets it holds.  This adds a layer of benefit to any prospective buyer on the property as the savings on the transfer tax would be attractive in the form of savings to any interested buyer. 

Without a PFF in place, it is also important to consider that you may be exposed to minimal or no asset protection in case something happens with your investments (for example, bankruptcy and/or legal or federal claims). 

Other benefits of a Private Fund Foundation to consider include:

Total Foreign Participation:  A Sint Maarten PFF can be formed by a foreign founder and have foreign beneficiaries.  

No Taxes: The PFF is tax-exempt unless actively engaged in business or enterprise activities for profit. However, U.S. residents and everyone subject to global income taxes must report all income to their governments.  

Privacy: If beneficiaries are appointed, their names never appear in any public records.  

Time for Formation: With BrightPath, a Sint Maarten Private Fund Foundation can be formed and registered as fast as two business days if required by our client(s). 

Passive rental income is tax-exempt (except for 5% turnover tax) 

Private Fund Foundations are widely used in Sint Maarten to protect real estate assets and appoint specific beneficiaries.  

A PFF will help you protect your investment for future generations.  

Start Today!

Start the process for your own Private Fund Foundation today.  BrightPath can offer you the necessary services to create your Private Fund Foundation and offer you real estate, banking, and tax advisory services if you require them.  

Book a consultation with our team and let us assist you in the formation of your PFF protect your real estate investment. If you already own real estate in your personal name and you wish to transfer the ownership out of your name and into a PFF, BrightPath can assist with this process too in conjunction with the closing agent (notary) of your choice.  Our experience and services are available for the protection of your valued assets and with consideration for your planning and it’s one free consultation away, by starting here. 

FAQ’s

1. What is a Private Fund Foundation (PFF) and how does it protect assets in St. Maarten? A Private Fund Foundation (PFF) is a legal entity designed to protect assets, investments, or funds in St. Maarten. It allows individuals to create and participate in a PFF without requiring external members or shareholders. The PFF can distribute funds to designated beneficiaries and is exempt from profit taxes as long as it does not engage in business activities for profit.
2. What are the benefits of establishing a Private Fund Foundation in St. Maarten for real estate ownership? Establishing a PFF in St. Maarten offers several benefits, including exemption from profit taxes, protection against inheritance tax, and avoidance of transfer taxes when selling property held by the PFF. Additionally, a PFF provides asset protection in case of bankruptcy or legal claims and offers privacy for beneficiaries as their names do not appear in public records.
3. How quickly can a Private Fund Foundation be formed in St. Maarten with BrightPath’s assistance? With BrightPath’s assistance, a Private Fund Foundation in St. Maarten can be formed and registered in as fast as two business days if required. BrightPath offers services for creating PFFs, as well as real estate, banking, and tax advisory services, ensuring a comprehensive approach to asset protection and estate planning.

Do you have additional questions?

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you throughout the process!

 

If you’re looking to take a break from your life, the Caribbean Islands are calling. With crystal clear waters and some of the best beaches in the world, there’s no better place to relax and unwind on vacation. From exploring the islands to eating your way through local cuisine, here are seven reasons to be in the Caribbean today!

The People

The people in the Caribbean are some of the friendliest, most welcoming, and most helpful people you will ever meet. You will never walk down a street and feel like you are being judged or overlooked by anyone. The people are friendly, kind, respectful and happy!

Food

It is when you can indulge in the freshest and most delicious food at a very reasonable price. The Caribbean offers various cuisines, including Caribbean, Creole, and European. If adventurous, try local food like conch chowder or black cake. You won’t be disappointed!

The cuisine varies depending on what island you visit; each island has its famous specialties. Take Barbados, for example – this island is known for its seafood dishes like flying fish sandwiches or fresh conch salad! 

The residents here also serve up some mean jerk chicken which tastes incredible when eaten with rice & peas (also known as “callaloo“). In Jamaica, it is all about jerk pork, or chicken served as part of their famous Kingston 11 patties (an appetizer). If none sound appealing, why not try their famous fried dumplings? These crispy treats are sure to please any hungry traveler looking to get their hands on something tasty before hitting the town after dinner.

Explore the Islands

While you’re on the islands, make sure to explore. Explore the cities and neighborhoods that have been around for hundreds of years. Explore the beaches and take in the beauty of nature. Explore the culture and learn about its history. And explore the food—you won’t be disappointed!

Beaches Beaches Beaches

• Grand Anse, Grenada
• Chateau Beach, St. Lucia
• Oualie Beach, St. Lucia

The great thing about these beaches is that they’re all different in their way. But what makes them unique? Let’s start with Grand Anse: it’s the largest beach in Grenada and has been named the best beach in the Caribbean by Trip Advisor (and who are we to disagree with that?). It also has excellent facilities for families thanks to its shallow waters and calm waves; this is where you’ll find people swimming and playing water sports like paddle boarding and kayaking!

As for Chateau Beach, well, it’s just beautiful! The sand is pure white, and palm trees surround it, so there are plenty of places to relax under shade if you feel like sunbathing or swimming around in clear blue waters. There are plenty of bars along this stretch if you grab a drink before heading home or a meal at one of the nearby restaurants! As for Oualie Beach, let us know how much fun you had once you visited.

You can take a Jet Ski Trip.

If you need to figure out what a jet ski is, it’s a type of personal watercraft. These are popular Caribbean activities and books at many resorts and hotels. You can take a jet ski trip for an hour, a day, or even both! It all depends on your budget, time constraints, and how much fun you want to have.

You can go solo or group up with friends to make it more exciting. If at most five people are at your party, it will cost around $100 per hour. If there are over five people, the price doubles to $200 per hour but includes insurance against any accidents that could occur while riding them together on open water (so no need to worry about getting hurt).

You can Jump Out of a Plane

Now is your chance if you’ve ever wanted to be James Bond jumping out of a plane! You can get a tandem skydive certificate or solo jump on many Caribbean islands. This adrenaline-filled activity will allow you to experience freefalling at high speeds and seeing the earth from above. It will also leave you with memories that will last forever. It’s something everyone should try at least once in their lifetime!

Stay at a 5 Star Resort

One of the best things about staying on the Caribbean islands is that you can stay at a five-star resort. Many five-star resorts throughout the islands, including Jamaica and Cuba. With so many choices for accommodations, it will take time to decide where to stay. However, there are a few things that you should keep in mind when deciding which hotel to choose:

• What type of activities do they offer? If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, then a resort with fewer activities might be better suited than one with tons of fun going on all day.
• What is their reputation? It is sometimes black-and-white, but if Google says that people love this place, it will be pretty good!
• How much does it cost per night? Some 5-star resorts can get pretty expensive depending on how luxurious your needs, so try searching around before booking anything just yet!

After reading this article, book your flight now!

The Caribbean islands are a great place to spend your vacation. You will enjoy the beautiful weather, friendly people, delicious food, and beautiful beaches. You won’t regret it!

To sum up, we hope this article has inspired you to take the leap and experience life in the Caribbean islands. It can be hard to make such a big decision, but it will improve your life! So what are you waiting for? Give BrightPath Caribbean a call now!

One of the most well-liked tourism locales worldwide is the Caribbean. It consists of more than 5,000 islands, reefs, and cays, all of which have different attractions and pricing points. The Caribbean is ideal for beach bums, honeymooners, and anybody wishing to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors. It is especially popular among North Americans trying to escape the cold.

You don’t have to choose expensive all-inclusive mega-hotels with hundreds of cramped rooms and buffets overflowing with fast food to enjoy the same stunning beaches and luxuriously warm blue seas as the high rollers. Islands scattered across these tempting seas offer fantastic, engaging, and affordable places to stay. If you plan and keep an eye on costs while there, you can easily travel across the Caribbean on a budget.

You should know when to go.

Prices fall worldwide from June through August, which is the low season. During the northern hemisphere’s peak season, which lasts from December to March, prices and airfares rise in an inverse relationship with temperature. If avoiding the cold is crucial, you may search for travel dates during the first two weeks of December, after the US Thanksgiving holiday, and once again during the second part of January. 

Expect small discounts, not huge ones, even though winter crowds tend to get smaller at these times.

Book a room ahead of time.

In peak season, hotel rates remain constant regardless of how far out you book your trip. Large hotels and resorts often offer a variety of specials that may imply significant discounts for those prepared to commit several months before they want to visit, in contrast to smaller hotels and guesthouses that frequently have rate cards that don’t alter depending on demand. Again, spending time browsing online travel agencies will result in savings. Look for offers that provide extras like free meals, excursions, and accommodation upgrades.

Package offers that involve travel to the island may also be available from large resorts and Internet booking services. These can, but don’t always, result in significant total savings. Analyze the cost of traveling individually so you can compare package deals intelligently.

You should eat local food.

Like nearly anywhere on the globe, eating with locals will almost always result in lower prices, better cuisine, and food that more accurately reflects local preferences. Just don’t expect to sit at a table overlooking the waves. One thing to keep in mind is that people in the Caribbean often eat supper at about 6 o’clock.

Be careful when selecting resorts.

Even if you find a fantastic price on resort lodging, you are not required to do all your business there. The resort was offered at a low price because the printer manufacturer earns its money by selling you accessories like ink cartridges. The same is true with resorts; once you are in your hotel, they want to make money off of you by upselling you on expensive services and extras.

One significant source of revenue is the resort activities desk. Instead, choose a beachside independent activities provider. Look online for suggestions from locals who can give you more exciting and personal experiences than resorts.

Please message us if you have any queries. Lastly, thank you for forwarding this article to a friend who might like to visit the Caribbean!

Turquoise-blue water, pearl white sand, and lush palm trees. We all dream of visiting the Caribbean at least once in our lifetime. Some are lucky enough to not only visit the gorgeous Caribbean islands but also find a home to move to the Caribbean permanently.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves right away. While you may want to immigrate to the Caribbean one day in your life, now let’s talk about a much-deserved vacation to the Caribbean islands.

So how do you pick the best Caribbean islands out of the 28 countries and 750 islands? It’s simple: take inspiration from this blog and add these five stunning Caribbean islands to your bucket list. We also have a reason for you to visit each of these places!

St. Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts and Nevis is a sister island in the Caribbean that’s known for one of the richest heritage and architectural buildings. St. Kitts and Nevis is also a golfer’s paradise as the island has a wide range of golfing activities you can indulge in. Do you want to transport yourself back to the 1800s? Visit the historical sites on this sister island.

Anguilla

If you want to live in the Caribbean like a free spirit, visit Anguilla. Anguilla is the dream destination for sports enthusiasts, known for some of the best water sports activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving.

Belize

Belize is known for its coral reefs, buzzing nightlife, and great contemporary infrastructure. If you want to experience a luxurious vacation in the Caribbean, then Belize is the place you need to be. Offering a wide range of activities, beaches, and cuisine, Belize has it all in one place.

Antigua and Barbuda

The land of 365 beaches! Antigua and Barbuda is presumably the only island in the world with 365 beaches. So if you’re a fan of exotic scenery, delicious Caribbean cuisine, and ferry boats, head over to Antigua and Barbuda. This island will offer you both a boho-chic feel and a metropolis vibe with its unique island life.

St. Maarten

And if you ever want to move to the Caribbean for good, then visit St. Maarten once. This part Dutch and part French island is known as the Friendly Island and is a hub of everything amazing. From vibrant city life to multiculturalism, St. Maarten has everything you wish for in a place.

At BrightPath Caribbean, we offer immigration consultancy and business incorporation services. If you wish to relocate to the Caribbean and start a new life, reach out to us.

Since the pandemic, the current employment market globally has been ever-changing and very dynamic. Statistics show that employers are sourcing skilled employees often remotely. At BrightPath, we offer regional solutions for immigration, corporate, and banking services that support your business, and in the case of work permits; support your Human Resources department, saving your company time and money.

Work Permits in Sint Maarten

Work permits in Sint Maarten are requested by the prospective employer and require a two-part process with the labor and immigration departments. Read this article below on five things you must know before applying for a work permit in St. Maarten.

A work permit is granted for a definite period beginning and the validity of the work permit is determined by the labor agreement and usually is not granted for a period exceeding one (1) year. In adherence with local labor and immigration policy, all (local and foreign) employers who engage in an employment agreement with a non-national in St. Maarten must apply for a work permit, except for the following:

• Dutch citizens and United States citizens who have obtained legal residency in St Maarten
• Persons having a residence permit for an indefinite period (commonly referred to as “permanent residency”);
• A person married to a Dutch citizen; the latter having been registered in St Maarten;

 

1. Verifiable Documents must be Readily Available

BrightPath can support you in sourcing the right candidate BEFORE you have extended a formal offer of employment.  This is important because for work permits in St Maarten, diplomas and relevant skill certificates should be presented in their original form when applying for the employment permit. Further, the documents must be validated by the issuing educational institution and a letter from the institution confirming that the diploma is authentic must also be obtained. If presenting copies, these must be notarized by a licensed notary in the country of origin.  Oftentimes, candidates have difficulties understanding and managing these complexities when obtaining these requirements.  For this reason, many human resource specialists trust in BrightPath to guide them in the work permit and residency permit process relying on the suite of services offered by our team of experts.

2. Work Experience must be substantiated

When applying for a work permit in St. Maarten, the petition to employ a foreign national and seek a work permit in connection to the same must justify to the Department of Labor that the non-national employee possesses a skillset that cannot be found on the island.  To substantiate the request, BrightPath recommends that the applicant provide employment reference letters from previous employers.  These professional employment reference letters must be notarized in the country of origin and are provided to verify the period of previous employment and work-related experience in support of what will be the applicant’s new role and responsibilities under this proposed employment in St Maarten.

3. Stay Abroad During the Application Process

Unless the prospective employee holds Dutch or American (USA) citizenship, the applicant must await the decision for both work and residency permits while remaining abroad.  For planning purposes, aside from the time allotted to source the documentation, the process starts once all documents have been received by BrightPath.  Usually, a mandatory five-week waiting period must be observed, during which time the position must be advertised in local traditional media outlets, and a reasonable timeframe is given for suitable candidates within the local labor pool to apply.  In some instances, with a written petition prepared and submitted, our firm can obtain consideration for the waiver of this waiting period if the role is essential and it can be substantiated that no suitable candidates can be sourced from within the local labor market.  In addition to the five weeks, a maximum six-week waiting period is allocated to the adjudication process at the Labor Department.

4. Employers (not employees) are the Petitioner

The employer must request work permits. Moreover, evidence of tax compliance is a pre-requisite for all employers seeking to acquire a work permit for a foreign employee in St Maarten.  For this reason, we explicitly detail that if you are seeking employment in St. Maarten, our firm DOES NOT offer recruitment services, and our immigration services must be retained by the employer and not the employee.

5. Health Insurance is Mandatory

For application purposes, health insurance is now a pre-requisite for the work and residency permit process. Therefore, employers must verify that their foreign employees hold a valid health insurance policy.  This health insurance policy must be accepted by the Sint Maarten Medical Center.  For more information on medical insurance related to work and residency permits, rely on the team at BrightPath to provide you with accurate information.

 

FAQ’s

1. What are the essential documents required for applying for a work permit in St. Maarten, and how can BrightPath assist employers in sourcing the right candidates with validated credentials?

To apply for a work permit in St. Maarten, employers must ensure that verifiable documents such as original diplomas and skill certificates are readily available, validated by the issuing institution, and accompanied by a confirmation letter. BrightPath can support employers in sourcing candidates with validated credentials before extending formal offers of employment, ensuring compliance with work permit requirements.

2. How can applicants substantiate their work experience when applying for a work permit in St. Maarten, and why are employment reference letters crucial in this process?

Applicants seeking a work permit in St. Maarten must justify their skillset by providing employment reference letters from previous employers, notarized in the country of origin. These letters verify previous employment and work-related experience, supporting the applicant’s suitability for the proposed role. BrightPath advises applicants on the importance of substantiating their work experience to meet the Department of Labor’s requirements.

3. What is the process for obtaining work and residency permits in St. Maarten for foreign nationals, and why is it necessary for applicants to remain abroad during the application process?

Prospective employees seeking work and residency permits in St. Maarten, unless Dutch or American citizens, must await permit decisions while remaining abroad. The process begins once all required documents are received by BrightPath, including a mandatory waiting period for labor market advertising. Employers can petition for a waiver of this waiting period under certain circumstances. BrightPath outlines the process and advises applicants to remain abroad during the application process to ensure compliance and facilitate a smooth transition.

Do you have additional questions?

To learn more about how BrightPath Caribbean can support your business in successfully obtaining work and residency permits for key personnel, schedule your free consultation today.

 

Despite there being no recent statistics available, it’s estimated that owing to the political unrest and pandemic, at least nine million Americans have immigrated out of the country. A large number of these immigrants are moving to the Caribbean to enjoy retired life, start a business or merely enjoy the simplicity of life the pristine beaches offer.

To make the immigration process easier and hassle-free, Americans and Canadians largely rely on immigration consultants. However, sometimes finding a shady business disguised as an immigration agency can be a major setback. So to find a credible and reliable immigration consultant service, here are some tips to remember.

Start with Referrals

The best way to begin your search to hire an immigration consultant is by asking for referrals and recommendations from peers. This way, you can know the firsthand experience of people you trust and find an agency that has fulfilled their client’s expectations. You can also check online reviews at this stage to know the agency’s reputation.

Proceed to Credentials

Once you contact an immigration consultant, check for their credentials. Credentials include their registration number, association with local bodies, cognition at the embassy of the country you want to immigrate to, and certifications. If an immigration agency happily provides these details, you can consider them for your immigration to the Caribbean.

Ask for Experience

Ask your immigration consultant to share their experience details, their number of years in the business, the number of immigrants they have helped settle in the Caribbean, and other details. You can also ask the agency to put you in touch directly with your consultant so that you can speak to them directly.

Weigh in Your Options

Some Caribbean countries offer Immigrant by Investment Program, while others offer retirement plans to immigrants. Make sure to discuss all your options and immigration plans with your consultant and see how informed and clear they’re.

Inquire About Process

The immigration process to the Caribbean countries takes somewhere around three to six months. Some Caribbean countries also require foreigners to stay in the country for a while before granting residence or citizenship. Check with your agent the requirements of the Caribbean country you’re immigrating to and understand the time frame. Ask your agent about their frequency of communication and updates during this period.

Sign a Contract

Once you’re fully satisfied and have understood the process, have your immigration agency draft a contract. This will entail information like the agency’s details, estimated time frame, and the cost of the process, including your consultant’s fee.

Find the Right Agency

An immigration consultant that fits all criteria is the one you should be hiring for your immigration services. You can also get in touch with us at BrightPath Caribbean to start the process and obtain a residency permit at the earliest.

You require financial security during retirement more than ever before. However, studies suggest that less than half of Americans are prepared for their retirement life, and even lesser have ever spoken to retirement consultants to plan their old age.

According to estimates, one needs approximately 70 to 90 percent of their income to maintain their lifestyle during retirement. Luckily, with a low housing cost and tax exemptions, moving to the Caribbean is often considered a sensible decision for retirees.

So what do you need to do if you plan to retire and settle in the Caribbean? Well, here’s a basic guide to planning a comfortable retirement with specifics to help you find the perfect home in one of the 23 Caribbean countries.

Start Saving

Ideally, one should start saving at 45 years of age to retire after 60. However, if you have not done so already, you can opt for a 10-year retirement saving plan to save 15 percent of your gross annual income. And no matter what happens, do not touch your retirement fund at all!

Pick a Location

Depending on your current lifestyle and preferred choice of retirement life, find a location in the Caribbean that you love the most. While St. Maarten is known to have one of the lowest crime rates globally, Belize offers a 29% lower cost of living than the US. So make a pick according to your needs and preferences.

Plan for Medical Coverage

Since Medicare does not offer coverage to Americans living outside of the US, you can either opt for a medical insurance plan to obtain private healthcare services or have substantial funds to fly out to Mexico or the US for your medical needs.

Set Your Goals

Retirement goals consist of various things you can or want to do in your retirement life. You can either start a business in St. Maarten, or set up an off-shore company in Anguilla right away. Whatever you picture yourself doing when you retire, start working towards it. Moreover, some Caribbean countries like Belize require you to put in funds to benefit from their retirement funds. Speak to your consultant and look into every aspect of it.

Get Professional Help

Get in touch with a retirement consultant to get started with the process. A retirement consultant in the Caribbean can walk you through the legality of the process and help you in acquiring a residency permit, setting up a bank account, and buying property.

If you are looking for a retirement consultant in the Caribbean that offers you transparent services with dedication, reach out to us at BrightPath Caribbean. We have helped thousands of clients immigrate to the Caribbean and start businesses, acquire residence and even earn citizenship. Schedule a free Zoom consultation with us today to begin the process.

The Caribbean is made up of more than 700 islands, reefs, and islets. And out of all those amazing places, St. Maarten is definitely one you won’t want to miss! With its unique blend of cultures, stunning beaches, and delicious food, it’s no wonder why so many people have fallen in love with this Caribbean gem. If you’re thinking of visiting or even moving to St. Maarten, here are some fun facts you might not have heard about yet.

One Island, Two Governments

St. Maarten and Saint Martin are two halves of the island jointly owned by the Dutch and the French. The south half, St. Maarten, is an independent territory of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, whereas France owns the northern half and it is an overseas collectivity of the French Republic.

Smallest Co-Shared Land

St. Maarten is the smallest area in the world that’s co-shared by two countries. With a total covered area of 87 kilometers square, St. Maarten is the smallest populated island as well as the only one of this size to have two different governing bodies, making it a fascinating place to visit.

Oldest Open Border

Ever since the treaty of Concordia in 1648, the Dutch and French have kept open borders in St. Maarten, thus making it the oldest open border in the world. Tourists may notice border monuments on both sides of the island but can freely move from one part to the other. This makes Sint Maarten a very special place where you can live and spend time, go to the beach, do groceries or go to restaurants in a different country any time you wish.

Capital with a Beach

Phillipsburg is the capital of St. Maarten, it was founded by a Scottish captain employed in the Dutch navy named John Philips in 1763, and it has its own beach called Great Bay! With pristine, warm, and inviting waters, it is simply spectacular. If you are visiting the Island, you should spend one day in Philipsburg, walk around, have a drink, do some shopping, and enjoy a sunny day at the beach.

Beach with an Airport

Maho Beach is a must-visit for travelers and a fun activity for residents, it is unique due to The Princess Juliana International Airport having its runway right there, just a few meters away from the beach, making Maho Beach very famous for its plane-spotting experience, where incoming planes fly just meters above visitors’ heads. It is the world’s most famous beach for this spectacle. It’s the perfect place to capture an Instagram-worthy shot of a jumbo jet passing overhead.

Hundred Cultures

According to St. Maarten’s government, the country hosts over a hundred different nationalities and cultures in a population of less than a hundred thousand. This makes St. Maarten one of the smallest yet richest multicultural populations in the world. Due to this reason, you can enjoy a huge range of cuisines in the country.

Strong Sea Hold

Due to its unique geographic location and strong ties to the European and North American countries, St. Maarten is the hub of sea transport and home to many cargo companies in the eastern Caribbean. Sint Maarten has the most important cargo and cruise ship port in the region.

Make St. Maarten your Home

If you’re looking for a vibrant, ethnically rich country with great opportunities to enjoy life to the fullest, consider making St. Maarten your home with the services of BrightPath Caribbean. Sint Maarten offers different immigration programs for those looking to start a business, invest, or retire and enjoy life.

Do you have any questions?

Contact us today to begin your journey to residency!